Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require routine cleaning efforts, earwax normally takes care of itself. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it might cause issues at times. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural material generated by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its primary job? Protecting your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also assists in maintaining moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and discomfort. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
Most children and adults never have to worry about eliminating earwax. But for saome people, it can accumulate and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
While earwax is usually a friend to our bodies, there are times it can become problematic, especially if it becomes impacted (blocked or crammed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax may become an issue:
- Cotton swabs are commonly utilized by people to clean their ears; however, this action might unintentionally push earwax further into the ear canal, causing blockages. It’s okay to use these gently around the outer ear, but steer clear of inserting them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can prevent earwax from naturally working its way out of the ear, resulting in buildup.
- Excessive earwax creation: A prevalent problem for some individuals, resulting in a higher risk of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might lead to an infection in certain circumstances. When you encounter these signs, it’s important to seek assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Consulting a medical expert is recommended if you are experiencing extreme earwax build-up. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, but it’s smart to consult your doctor first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
Contact us to set up an appointment if you’re concerned about earwax buildup or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai